The Abdiel class of fast minelayers was a most successful design of ship, the first group being launched in 1940. The class of ship was dependent of sustained high speed for mine laying operations.
Manxman was constructed at Alexander Stephen and Sons works and launched 0n 5/9/40 She was powered with 2 shaft geared turbines with 72,000 S.H.P giving a top speed of 40 + knots with a full load of 156 mines.
Manxman served through-out WW 11 and lasted until the 70s as m/S support ship based in Malta.
This class of successful ships will always be remembered for their wartime exploits. Built for mining operations in enemy waters they were exceedingly effective in that role. Their outstanding attributes of very high speed and considerable enclosed carrying capacity only added to their usefulness when it came to running troops and supplies through enemy defensives in the Mediterranean sea, the first four the class made a very important contribution helping to sustain Malta in 1942

Details of the kit

Scale 1/96  Length 1.34m Beam 150mm  Sailing weight 5kgs

The fiberglass hull in this kit is with full plating and port detail. The large stern mine laying doors and all outlets are moulded into this hull. Computer generated printed plastic forms the main superstructure along with the 1mm plastic deck. To complete the construction of the model all complex parts are vacformed in 1mm plastic for funnel, boats, turrets etc.
A complete set of fittings are included in the kit with all detail parts such as weapons, deck fittings, etc, cast in light alloy. Larger item such as lockers, floats, and gun bases are moulded in plastic castings for light weight.
The two large mine loading cranes, such a notable feature of this class of ship are assembled from etched brass in 9 parts for simple assembly.
Ladders and stanchions are also in etched brass to give a final showcase finish.
Propshafts in stainless steel are cased in brass proptubes with fitted oilers and replaceable bearings along with rudder and tiller arm.
These, together with a comprehensive instruction book and a FULL SIZE PLAN assist in the assembly of this impressive model.
A colour chart and a set of decals for signal flags are included in the kit to add the finishing touch to this most powerful looking model as a worthy and much requested addition to our warship range.